Historical Restoration

Why Heritage Restoration?

Grants are available to restore old buildings

Greater Victoria boasts hundreds of heritage buildings. Hundreds more could become heritage-designated – and eligible for tax incentives and restoration grants — but approval rests with local advisory groups like the Victoria Heritage Foundation, Saanich Heritage Foundation, Oak Bay Heritage Commission, and Esquimalt Heritage Advisory Committee. Eligibility requirements can be stringent, so understanding how to meet the priorities of these organizations is the key to winning a grant. That’s where Horizon can help.

Experience matters.

Heritage restoration in Victoria mainly focuses on exterior items like windows, doors, facades, cladding and trim. However it’s not uncommon to see flooring and plaster restored inside these buildings as well. Knowing how to properly upgrade these elements is a specialized craft. One of the top issues we see is damage to bricks and wood trim from pressure washing. Moisture penetrates deep into the dry wood and rots quickly once it has been painted. Horizon has the craft skills to authentically restore building features to ensure long term durability while meeting modern building code.

Seismic upgrades must be done right.

Concerns that the ‘big one is coming’ are triggering many municipalities and building owners to do seismic upgrades to their properties. Worry about insurance liability is also a prime motivator, and one of the most important reasons you should hire a qualified contractor to perform your retrofit. Standard construction approaches are no longer good enough, which is why Horizon stays up-to-date on the latest building practices through certifications and training. Horizon is a seismic specialist.

Expect the unexpected.

Restoration of commercial buildings is like a walk through the jungle — you have to be prepared for anything. Opening up a wall could reveal any number of surprises from outdated knob and tube wiring to Asbestos. Being flexible and responsive is the key to staying on time and on budget. Our team of in-house trades and subcontractors has seen it all and knows exactly how to respond when the unexpected happens.